A missive from the Tesla factory grounds: Yes, we've driven the Model S. Yes, we like the Model S

June 21, 2012

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Today. Oh, today. Almost six years after our first ride in a prototype Tesla Roadster in Santa Monica, we mashed the accelerator pedal on an example of the company's Model S sedan. How was it? We'll have a fuller report from our brief drive for you on Monday.

In a few words, however, it felt like an automobile--a fabulous thing, indeed. It's not without its quirks; but in the quick ride we had in a Performance model followed by a drive in the regular Signature Series car, we were impressed with the stonktastic torque and the everyday driveability. Despite the car's heft, the low center of gravity keeps it relatively tossable.

It's not vaporware. The company's current turning out one vehicle per day, ramping up to 80 per day by the end of the year. The revived NUMMI plant is a heartening thing to behold. The product they've come up with seems like something the target demo will absolutely buy into. The Tesla faithful likely won't be disappointed. Time and sales figures will tell if it's enough to pull people away from BMW and Audi.

We'll get into the nittiest of gritties and nuts and bolts on Monday. Stay tuned.